Canada Day fireworks will fly despite fire ban: City

Despite wildfires ravaging many forests in Canada and a Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry imposed fire ban in effect for Sault Ste. Marie since June 1, a safe fireworks display will be held locally on Canada Day.

“We have implemented several measures to guarantee a carefully controlled fireworks display. This includes a water-based display where fireworks will be launched from a barge located a safe distance from any combustible areas such as forests or residential neighbourhoods,” said Tessa Vecchio, City of Sault Ste. Marie communications officer in an email.

A team of highly trained and experienced professional pyrotechnicians will launch Canada Day fireworks over the Sault on July 1.

However, “the fire ban is in effect and will likely be in effect during the July 1 weekend,” Vecchio stated.

No open air burning is permitted but Saultites can still use certified natural gas, propane fire pits, fireplaces, and fire tables.

Sault Fire Services will not be issuing or renewing open-air burning permits until the fire ban is lifted and consumer firework permits will not be issued at this time. 

Sault, Michigan's Fourth of July fireworks display is still scheduled to go ahead as well, but it won't make for easy viewing from Canada this year. Safety concerns around ongoing construction at the Soo Locks means the July 4 event has been moved to the Sault Ste. Marie Municipal Airport.